As Nigeria faces a severe food crisis, Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasized that hunger is unjustifiable, given the country’s vast agricultural potential. At the launch of Springfield Agro Limited’s Crop Protection Chemical Plant in Ogun State, the Vice President, represented by Senator Sabi Abdullahi, the Minister of State for Agriculture, highlighted Nigeria’s favorable climate, abundant arable land, and various resources that can support both local consumption and food exports. Shettima expressed concern that many farmers depend on only the rainy season, which leaves their farms inactive during the dry months. He pointed out, “We have immense potential, but we have mainly relied on farming during the rainy season. The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS) is changing this by promoting farming all year round, both during wet and dry seasons.” The Vice President urged farmers to collaborate with their state ministries of agriculture, as the government is creating a comprehensive agricultural development database. “Our primary focus is on rice production. We will register farmers, provide them with fertilizers—organic and inorganic—and support them in other ways,” he explained. Shettima reaffirmed the government’s dedication to supporting businesses like Springfield Agro by eliminating barriers and creating a favorable environment for agricultural growth. “Agriculture is a top priority for President Bola Tinubu. Our initiatives aim to increase farmers’ productivity and yield through research, mechanization, and advanced technology,” he stated. N.G. Chanrai, Chairman of Kewalram Chanrai Group, emphasized the company’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural sector. “Springfield Agro Limited offers comprehensive farm solutions and creates employment for over 500 people across Nigeria. This $12 million agrochemical plant in Ogun State can produce 30 million liters of agrochemicals, with plans to expand production to 50 million liters,” he revealed. Chanrai also mentioned plans to export agricultural products to other African nations and highlighted the plant’s eco-friendly practices, including an effluent treatment facility. Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, praised Springfield Agro’s contributions to the industry and promised ongoing support for businesses. He encouraged both local and international investors to consider Ogun State due to its proximity to Lagos and conducive business environment. The event marked a successful partnership between the government and the private sector in addressing food security challenges and strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural capacity. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Massive Food Supply Boost as Nigeria Imports Rice Under Duty-Free Policy Nigeria has received a significant shipment of brown rice aimed at reducing soaring food costs affecting consumers. A 32,000-ton consignment, the first of its kind in a decade, recently arrived in Lagos. This delivery, facilitated by logistics company DUCAT, originated from Thailand and was made possible due to Nigeria’s temporary suspension of import tariffs on food crops such as wheat, corn, and rice, implemented last year. Despite the import duty waiver, many importers have remained cautious about large-scale purchases, concerned about the impact on local farmers. DUCAT CEO Adrian Beciri emphasized Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to expand food accessibility, stating, “Nigeria is actively seeking solutions to enhance and stabilize its food supply chain.” Nearly six months ago, Nigeria announced a series of strategies to control food inflation, which has surged to its highest rate in three decades. With almost half of the country’s population of over 200 million living in extreme poverty, the government introduced a 180-day window allowing duty-free imports of essential food crops. Agriculture and Food Security Minister Abubakar Kyari also revealed that imported foods will be sold under a recommended retail price system to prevent price exploitation. Further guidelines on enforcing the duty-free import measures are being finalized and will be released soon, according to a government official. Economic Reforms Impacting Food Prices Nigeria continues to face economic challenges linked to President Bola Tinubu’s reform policies since assuming office in May 2023. Key actions such as the devaluation of the naira and increased electricity tariffs have significantly contributed to price hikes, with food inflation reaching a 28-year peak of 41% in May. The naira’s depreciation, currently the world’s worst-performing currency after the Lebanese pound, coupled with rising costs, led the Central Bank to raise interest rates to a record high. The government recently announced plans to curb inflation through the “Inflation Reduction and Price Stability Order,” focusing on controlling price surges. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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President Bola Tinubu directs NADF to deploy 10,000 John Deere tractors to boost food production, with 2,000 units arriving in 2025 as part of a major agricultural mechanization initiative. ABUJA – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has instructed the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) to lead the distribution of 10,000 John Deere tractors across Nigeria, aiming to significantly enhance food production and mechanization. The initial phase will involve the delivery of 2,000 tractors starting between Q1 and Q2 of 2025, with plans to expand to the full 10,000 units over the next five years. During the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with John Deere at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in Abuja, NADF’s Executive Secretary, Mohammed Ibrahim, confirmed that the first batch of tractors will arrive at Lagos port before the wet farming season begins. He emphasized that NADF has been entrusted to implement one of the Federal Government’s mechanization initiatives under President Tinubu’s leadership, designed to diversify the economy and modernize agriculture. Ibrahim detailed that after receiving Federal Executive Council approval in October 2024, NADF engaged in thorough negotiations with John Deere and consulted stakeholders through international mechanization partner Haifa to ensure effective implementation. To expedite the process, NADF has also finalized an MoU with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). This agreement will facilitate the establishment of an assembly plant near the ports, ensuring smooth distribution across the country. Engr. Okoli Chijioke, Country Director of AGCOMS International Trading Limited, the sub-dealer of John Deere tractors in Nigeria, disclosed that the MoU is valued at $70 million for the procurement of the initial 2,000 tractors. He highlighted the importance of the assembly plant in not only facilitating the delivery but also equipping Nigerian youth with the skills to maintain and assemble the machinery for long-term productivity. Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, praised NADF for securing the MoU with AGCOMS and reaffirmed the Federal Executive Council’s commitment to supporting the mechanization drive. He encouraged NADF to ensure timely distribution of the tractors before the wet season, emphasizing the potential to attract young Nigerians to agribusiness. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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President Bola Tinubu dispels rumors of conflict with governors over local government autonomy, emphasizing collaboration for Nigeria’s prosperity and development. President Bola Tinubu has refuted claims of disagreements with Nigerian governors regarding local government autonomy, emphasizing the importance of their collaboration in driving national development. Speaking during a New Year homage at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos, President Tinubu addressed Vice President Kashim Shettima and members of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF). He highlighted the pivotal role governors play in fostering economic growth, food security, and national prosperity. Governors as the Backbone of National Development President Tinubu stressed that state governors are the most critical link to achieving grassroots development, as the federal government only accounts for 30–35% of allocated revenue. “The agricultural value chain depends on you. You own the land, and the job is in your hands,” he stated. He urged stronger federal-state collaboration to address pressing issues, including local government autonomy, agricultural productivity, and currency stability. Commitment to Local Government Autonomy Dispelling rumors of conflict with the governors, Tinubu reiterated his support for local government development. “We will not fight within us. Nobody wants to take local governments away from you. Let’s collaborate to ensure Nigeria is better off for it,” he said. Focus on Agricultural Growth and Economic Stability Highlighting agriculture as a cornerstone of economic stability, President Tinubu encouraged governors to prioritize agricultural productivity and address currency challenges. “We have to work harder, grow more, and ensure the situation of our currency improves. Nigeria will see prosperity, but it requires consistent effort from all of us,” he noted. Acknowledging Progress and Resilience President Tinubu commended the governors for their achievements across various states, expressing pride in their collective progress. Reflecting on his 19 months in office, he shared optimism about Nigeria’s capacity to thrive under resilient leadership. “I am glad I asked for this job, and Nigerians gave me the mandate. We’ll be on this voyage together,” he said, adding that he plans to visit Enugu State on January 4 as part of his nationwide tour. Tinubu Named “Man of the Year” The President welcomed his recognition by ThisDay newspaper as Man of the Year, calling it an acknowledgment of the administration’s progress. Kwara State Governor and NGF Chairman Abdulrahman Abdulrazak lauded the recognition, citing significant policy successes in agriculture and economic restructuring. “The policies are working. In Jigawa, there was a bumper harvest, and traders exported the produce due to the currency strength,” Abdulrazak explained. He added that governors are working to enhance food security and support national economic policies. Strengthening Security and Development Governor Abdulrazak assured Tinubu of the governors’ unwavering support, particularly in bolstering local security frameworks to improve national safety. “We are getting more funding due to the restructuring of the economy. Yes, there is inflation, but we are overriding it,” he added. President Tinubu concluded by reaffirming his commitment to collaborative governance, ensuring that Nigeria continues on the path of progress and stability. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
